A GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE ARCHAISTIC VASE (HU) QING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

the full pear-shaped body on a spreading foot with a central fillet, with two finely-cast taotie mask handles applied to the shoulder suspending loose rings below the waisted neck, the surface of the bronze with a russet patina with irregular gold splashes, the base with a recessed rectangle containing an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark

Sotheby's London, 27th June 1984, lot 4.
Collection of Lord Clark.
Sotheby's Hong Kong, 10th April 2006, lot 1704.

There is a ring-shaped discoloration on the body due to the handles. There are some linear casting flaws to the base, and dents to the interior of the foot rim. One section of the footrim has been repaired.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.